While Holy Names High School is celebrating 80 years
at its beloved Harbord Drive campus, school leaders are not content to
rest on their 142-year history of educating young women in Oakland.

The school has embarked on a strategic planning process, designed to,
as principal Sister Sally Slyngstad described it, “position ourselves
for the 21st century.”

The Holy Names sister said the only single-gender high school in Alameda
County is focused on “strengthening our strengths.”

In an announcement, the school said the planning process will “explore
innovative ways to continue to serve Bay Area students and provide a stimulating
and impactful educational experience.”

Over the next few months, students, parents, alums and supporters will
be invited to share their ideas and suggestions. The strategic planning
process, Sister Slyngstad said, is chaired by Paul Bennett.

“We are really attempting to reach out the entire community,”
the principal said.
Enrollment is among the issues the process will consider. “Holy
Names is in a position to welcome more well-qualified students,”
Sister Slyngstad said.

Among the 21st century moves already in the works is a new offering, Women
in Medicine, which will partner students with health care professionals.